CYNGOR CEFN GWLAD CYMRU COUNTRYSIDE COUNCIL FOR WALES CORE MANAGEMENT PLAN INCLUDING CONSERVATION OBJECTIVES FOR Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn Special Area of Conservation Version: 1.0 Date: March 2008 Approved by: Mike Willis A Welsh version of part or all of this document can be made available on request.
CONTENTS Preface: Purpose of this document 1. Vision for the Site 2. Site Description 2.1 Area and Designations Covered by this Plan 2.2 Outline Description 2.3 Outline of Past and Current Management 2.4 Management Units 3. The Special Features 3.1 Confirmation of Special Features 3.2 Special Features and Management Units 4. Conservation Objectives Background to Conservation Objectives 4.1 Conservation Objective for Feature 1: Embryonic Shifting Dunes 4.2 Conservation Objective for Feature 2: Shifting Dunes along the Shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ( white dunes ) 4.3 Conservation Objective for Feature 3: Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arinarea) 4.4 Conservation Objective for Feature 4: Humid Dune Slacks 4.5 Conservation Objective for Feature 5: Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii 5. Assessment of Conservation Status and Management Requirements: 5.1 Conservation Status and Management Requirements of Feature 1: Embryonic Shifting Dunes 5.2 Conservation Status and Management Requirements of Feature 2: Shifting Dunes along the Shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ( white dunes ) 5.3 Conservation Status and Management Requirements of Feature 3: Dunes with Salix repens ssp. Argentea (Salicion arinarea) 5.4 Conservation Status and Management Requirements of Feature 4: Humid Dune Slacks 5.5 Conservation Status and Management Requirements of Feature 5: Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii 6. Action Plan: Summary 7. Glossary 8. References 2
PREFACE This document provides the main elements of CCW s management plan for the site named. It sets out what needs to be achieved on the site, the results of monitoring and advice on the action required. This document is made available through CCW s web site and may be revised in response to changing circumstances or new information. This is a technical document that supplements summary information on the web site. One of the key functions of this document is to provide CCW s statement of the Conservation Objectives for the relevant Natura 2000 site. This is required to implement the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, as amended (Section 4). As a matter of Welsh Assembly Government Policy, the provisions of those regulations are also to be applied to Ramsar sites in Wales. 1. VISION FOR THE SITE This is a descriptive overview of what needs to be achieved for conservation on the site. It brings together and summarises the Conservation Objectives (part 4) into a single, integrated statement about the site. The sand dunes at Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn support a broad range of plant community types; from the naturally sparse vegetation of the strandline and the shifting dunes which grade into more fixed and stable dune communities such as the species rich mature dunes slacks and fixed dune grasslands. The mosaic of habitats, including sand dune communities, grasslands, swamp, shingle and scrub which add to the diversity of the site, should be maintained at their present level, or they could decrease in area, if the sand dunes or salt marsh increased. The natural processes which have formed both Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn sand dune systems, should be allowed to continue unimpeded. Natural debris on the strand line should be left to remain and develop into embryonic shifting dunes. Shifting dunes along the shoreline should be allowed to develop and erode naturally and the dune slacks should be allowed to form and expand, benefiting from a naturally high water table. The population of petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii should be maintained at least at its current level, but where possible increased. 2. SITE DESCRIPTION 2.1 Area and Designations Covered by this Plan Grid reference(s): Unitary authorities: Area (hectares): SH560350 & SH550250 Gwynedd County Council. 1,871 ha Designations covered: Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Morfa Harlech SSSI Morfa Dyffryn SSSI Morfa Harlech NNR Morfa Dyffryn NNR 3
Map 1. SAC, SSSI, and NNR designations at Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn This plan covers the green area only. 4
2.2 Outline Description Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC The Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC covers two sand dune systems, Morfa Harlech to the north and Morfa Dyffryn to the south. Morfa Harlech is a rapidly accreting dune systemgaining sand from the coast to the south including the dune system at Morfa Dyffryn, which is eroding. The Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC supports the following SAC features: Embryonic shifting dunes Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ( white dunes ) Humid dune slacks Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arinarea) Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii The various sand dune communities will through natural processes expand at the expense of others. This may affect the extent of the component SAC features, however, the dynamic processes of the sand dunes and their associated vegetation communities is a valued aspect of the coastal dune systems. The biggest potential conflict is stabilization of dunes and the potential loss of pioneering vegetation communities to fixed dune communities. Morfa Harlech sand dune system is accreting and is of great importance for its early successional features including its shifting and embryo dunes. The area of dunes away from the beach is very stable with little bare sand. The dune slacks at Morfa Harlech vary from drier slacks which grade into fixed dune grasslands to very damp slacks which undergo frequent flooding and support fen type vegetation communities. Although Petalophyllum ralfsii has been recorded at Morfa Harlech the lack of young slacks in this system means that the species is not abundant. Morfa Dyffryn is an eroding system which is highly mobile. A high proportion of the site is made up of bare sand. Shifting dunes extend from the shore right through to the landward boundaries of the dune system and are punctuated by extensive dune slacks. The slack vegetation varies from pioneering embryo slack habitats, successionally young slack communities which support the bulk of the population of Petalophyllum ralfsii through to mature, species rich dune slacks. 2.3 Outline of Past and Current Management Natural processes rather than direct management maintain the early succesional features such as the embryonic shifting dunes and the shifting dunes along the shoreline. Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn dune systems are part of a larger coastal cell which stretches from Afon Mawddach to Morfa Bychan. Accretion and erosion rates at the dune systems are dictated by the sediment supply within this cell, therefore, off site activities such as coastal defence works which affect this sediment supply impact on the sand dunes- in particular on these early successional features; embryo dunes and shifting dunes. Coastal defence works south of the site, such as the railway embankments at Llandanwg and Llanaber and wave breaking groynes at Barmouth could all be having an effect on the sand supply. The humid dune slacks (which support the Petalophyllum ralfsii) and the dunes with Salix repens are maintained both by management, such as grazing and scrub control, and natural factors, such as a high water table. Limited drain clearance, not affecting the features, has been consented. 5
Pressures from recreational access can have a destabilising effect on the sand dunes leading to erosion and blowouts. Such man-made erosion tends to occur at well-used access points and areas of activity such as close to camping sites and access routes from development. The causes of this type of erosion include car or motorised vehicle movement and parking, and the stripe effect of people running up and down dunes. Such activity, along with the provision and maintenance of tracks and moving wind-blown sand can also affect dune slacks by causing erosion and compaction. Morfa Harlech The southern part of Morfa Harlech includes areas of slack and fixed dune grassland which is managed as part of a golf course. Mowing and scrub cutting occurs in some parts of the golf course. Within the northern half of the site, both cattle and sheep graze the dune slacks, dune grasslands and salt marsh. Much of this area is designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR). Within the NNR there is an ongoing programme of scrub clearance and some of the slacks are mown/topped occasionally. Inland, part of the dune system is planted with conifers which form part of a larger forestry plantation. The forestry plantation is likely to be affecting the water table within the adjacent dune slacks. Vehicular access is restricted to maintenance and emergency vehicles only. The main visitor access is to the dunes from the main beach car park at Harlech via public footpaths. Erosion was a problem at this location in the past; however, the installation of a boardwalk and the restriction of public access to a fenced corridor to the beach have now reversed the problem. The dunes remain accessible to the public from the beach itself and from a public footpath which crosses the dunes to the south of the site. Morfa Dyffryn The majority of Morfa Dyffryn dune system is within the same ownership, and is managed under a Tir Gofal agreement with grazing levels set for the maintenance of the dunes. This part of the SAC is currently just winter grazed by cattle. Much of the site is also an NNR. To the north of Morfa Dyffryn and within the SAC is the Shell Island campsite which includes access tracks and rough camping in the dunes. Visitor access to the beach and the car park location here is accelerating erosion in this part of the site. Elsewhere on the site vehicle access is restricted to maintenance and emergency vehicles only. The dunes are accessible to the public from the beach and the public footpath which crosses the dune system. The main beach access point from Dyffryn Seaside Estate is along a fenced corridor through the dunes. Public access has also been controlled in the past at the main access point from the Snowdonia National Park Bennar Beach car park, however, the fencing at this access point has now been removed. This central part of the site (Unit 26) has suffered from major blowouts resulting from the unrestricted access by visitors and vehicles in the past, however, the restrictions put in place on public access and stabilisation works have now restored the damage. Inland of the dunes, is the now closed RAF air base which falls partially within the SAC and Morfa Dyffryn SSSI. Deep drainage ditches maintained by the Environment Agency exist within the Airfield could be having an effect on the water table of the site. As part of the NNR management there is an ongoing programme of scrub clearance on the site. Rabbit grazing is important in maintaining dune vegetation; however the rabbit populations within the dune systems do fluctuate due to outbreaks of myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (RDHV) resulting in changes to the vegetation. 6
2.4 Management Units The plan area has been divided into management units to enable practical communication about features, objectives, and management. This will also allow us to differentiate between the different designations where necessary. In this plan the management units have been based mainly on tenure and fenced management units under different management regimes. Some units are based on the distribution of a feature of interest. See accompanying map showing the management Units referred to in this plan. The following table confirms the relationships between the management units and the designations covered: Table 1. Management units and designations and the Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Unit number Unique ID code Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Morfa Harlech NNR Morfa Harlech SSSI 1 001060 a 2 001061 a Part 3 001062 a 4 001063 a Part 5 001064 a 6 001065 a Part Morfa Dyffryn SSSI 23 001082 a 24 001083 a 25 001084 a 26 001085 a 27 001086 a 28 001087 a Part Morfa Dyffryn NNR 7
3. THE SAC FEATURES 3.1 Confirmation of Special Features Table 2. Designated features at the Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Designated feature Relationships, nomenclature etc Conservation Objective in part 4 Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC features Annex I habitats that are a primary reason for selection of the site 1. Embryonic Shifting Dunes 2. Shifting Dunes along the Shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ( white dunes ) o o o Generally referred to as embryonic shifting dunes throughout this document. Strand line vegetation forms part of the embryonic shifting dunes feature in addition to actual embryonic dunes. Generally referred to as shifting dunes throughout this document. 2 3. Humid Dune Slacks o Generally referred to as humid dune slacks throughout this document or as dune slacks where considered along with dunes with Salix repens o o Mature forms of the humid dune slacks are difficult to separate from dunes with Salix repens, therefore, this feature is considered together with dunes with Salix repens in the conservation objective. Within the conservation objective, the humid dunes slacks are sub-divided into: mature dune slacks, successionally young dune slacks and embryo dunes slacks. 1 3 4. Dunes with Salix repens ssp. Argentea (Salicion arinarea) Annex II species that are a primary reason for site selection 5. Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii o o Generally referred to as dunes with Salix repens throughout this document or as dune slacks where considered along with humid dune slacks. This feature is considered together with humid dune slacks in the conservation objective Generally referred to as Petalophyllum throughout this document. This species is found within the humid dune slacks and dunes with Salix repens. It is found most often within the successionally young dune slacks. 3 4 8
3.2 Special Features and Management Units This section sets out the relationship between the special features and each management unit. This is intended to provide a clear statement about what each unit should be managed for, taking into account the varied needs of the different special features. All special features are allocated to one of seven classes in each management unit. These classes are: Key Features KH - a Key Habitat in the management Unit, i.e. the habitat that is the main focus of management and monitoring effort, perhaps because of the dependence of a key species (see KS below). There will rarely be more than one Key Habitat in a Unit. KS a Key Species in the management Unit, often driving both the selection and management of a Key Habitat. Geo an earth science feature that is the main focus of management and monitoring effort in a Unit. Other Features Sym - habitats, species and earth science features that are of importance in a Unit but are not the main focus of management or monitoring. These features will benefit from management for the key feature(s) identified in the Unit. These may be classed as Sym features because: a) they are present in the Unit but are of less conservation importance than the key feature; and/or b) they are present in the Unit but in small areas/numbers, with the bulk of the feature in other Units of the site; and/or c) their requirements are broader than and compatible with the management needs of the key feature(s). Nm - an infrequently used category where features are at risk of decline within a Unit as a result of meeting the management needs of the key feature(s), i.e. under Negative Management. These cases will usually be compensated for by management elsewhere in the plan, and can be used where minor occurrences of a feature would otherwise lead to apparent conflict with another key feature in a Unit. Mn - Management Units with no special feature present but which are of importance for management of features elsewhere on a site e.g. livestock over-wintering area included within designation boundaries. x Features not present in the management Unit. The table for Morfa Harlech below sets out the relationship between the special features and management units identified in this plan: Table 3. SAC Management units at Morfa Harlech Morfa Harlech -SAC Management Units 1 2 3 4 5 6 Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC a a a a a a Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC features 1. Embryonic shifting dunes x KH x x x x 2. Shifting dunes KH KH Sym Sym KH x 3.Humid dune slacks KH x KH KH KH KH 4. Dunes with Salix repens KH x KH KH x KH 5. Petalwort x x x Sym x Sym 9
Table 4. SAC Management units at Morfa Dyffryn Morfa Dyffryn SSSI Management Units 23 24 25 26 27 28 Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC a a a a a a Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Features 1. Embryo dunes x x x x x x 2. Shifting dunes KH KH x KH x KH 3.Humid dune slacks Sym x x KH KH KH 4. Dunes with Salix repens Sym x x KH KH KH 5. Petalwort x x x KS x KS 4. CONSERVATION OBJECTIVES Background to Conservation Objectives: a. Outline of the legal context and purpose of conservation objectives. Conservation objectives are required by the 1992 Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). The aim of the Habitats Directives is the maintenance, or where appropriate the restoration of the favourable conservation status of habitats and species features for which SACs and SPAs are designated (see Box 1). In the broadest terms, 'favourable conservation status' means a feature is in satisfactory condition and all the things needed to keep it that way are in place for the foreseeable future. CCW considers that the concept of favourable conservation status provides a practical and legally robust basis for conservation objectives for Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites. Box 1 Favourable conservation as defined in Articles 1(e) and 1(i) of the Habitats Directive The conservation status of a natural habitat is the sum of the influences acting on it and its typical species that may affect its long-term natural distribution, structure and functions as well as the long term survival of its typical species. The conservation status of a natural habitat will be taken as favourable when: Its natural range and areas it covers within that range are stable or increasing, and The specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long-term maintenance exist and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and The conservation status of its typical species is favourable. The conservation status of a species is the sum of the influences acting on the species that may affect the long-term distribution and abundance of its populations. The conservation status will be taken as favourable when: population dynamics data on the species indicate that it is maintaining itself on a long-term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats, and the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future, and There is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on a long-term basis. 10
Achieving these objectives requires appropriate management and the control of factors that may cause deterioration of habitats or significant disturbance to species. As well as the overall function of communication, Conservation objectives have a number of specific roles: Conservation planning and management. The conservation objectives guide management of sites, to maintain or restore the habitats and species in favourable condition. Assessing plans and projects. Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive requires appropriate assessment of proposed plans and projects against a site's conservation objectives. Subject to certain exceptions, plans or projects may not proceed unless it is established that they will not adversely affect the integrity of sites. This role for testing plans and projects also applies to the review of existing decisions and consents. Monitoring and reporting. The conservation objectives provide the basis for assessing the condition of a feature and the status of factors that affect it. CCW uses performance indicators within the conservation objectives, as the basis for monitoring and reporting. Performance indicators are selected to provide useful information about the condition of a feature and the factors that affect it. The conservation objectives in this document reflect CCW s current information and understanding of the site and its features and their importance in an international context. The conservation objectives are subject to review by CCW in light of new knowledge. b. Format of the conservation objectives There is one conservation objective for each feature listed in part 3. Each conservation objective is a composite statement representing a site-specific description of what is considered to be the favourable conservation status of the feature. These statements apply to a whole feature as it occurs within the whole plan area, although section 3.2 sets out their relevance to individual management Units. Each conservation objective consists of the following two elements: 1. Vision for the feature 2. Performance indicators As a result of the general practice developed and agreed within the UK Conservation Agencies, conservation objectives include performance indicators, the selection of which should be informed by JNCC guidance on Common Standards Monitoring 1. There is a critical need for clarity over the role of performance indicators within the conservation objectives. A conservation objective, because it includes the vision for the 1 Available through www.jncc.gov.uk and follow links to Protected Sites and Common Standards Monitoring. 11
feature, has meaning and substance independently of the performance indicators, and is more than the sum of the performance indicators. The performance indicators are simply what make the conservation objectives measurable, and are thus part of, not a substitute for, the conservation objectives. Any feature attribute identified in the performance indicators should be represented in the vision for the feature, but not all elements of the vision for the feature will necessarily have corresponding performance indicators. As well as describing the aspirations for the condition of the feature, the Vision section of each conservation objective contains a statement that the factors necessary to maintain those desired conditions are under control. Subject to technical, practical and resource constraints, factors which have an important influence on the condition of the feature are identified in the performance indicators. 12
4.1 Conservation Objective for Feature 1: Embryonic shifting dunes (EU Habitat Code: 2110) Comprising strandline and foredune of the following National Vegetation Classification (NVC) communities: - SD 2,4 &5 Vision for Feature 1 The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: The total extent of the embryonic shifting dunes including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated. The strand line and embryonic dune vegetation should be made up of typical species listed in the table below. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control. Table 5. Typical species of the embryonic shifting dunes Typical species of the embryonic shifting dunes at Morfa Harlech Feature NVC Communities Typical species-constants and/or desirable species* subdivision Strand line species SD2 Honkenya peploides-cakile maritima strandline community Cakile maritima, Honkenya peploides (Honkenya peploides is often the only species present over much of the strand line at Harlech). Salsola kali*, Atriplex spp., Beta vulgaris, Matricaria matricoides*, Elytrigia juncea (Elymus farctus), Leymus arenarius, Hypochoeris radicata, Festuca rubra, Sonchus asper*. Embryonic dunes SD4 Elymus farctus ssp. Boreali-atlanticus fore dune community. SD5 Leymus arenarius mobile dunes community Elytrigia juncea (Elymus farctus) Salsola kali*, Atriplex spp., Beta vulgaris, Matricaria matricoides* Elytrigia juncea (Elymus farctus), Leymus arenarius, Hypochoeris radicata, Festuca rubra, Sonchus asper*. Leymus arenarius. 13
Map 2. The extent and location of the Embryonic Shifting Dunes in September 2007 14
Performance indicators for Feature 1 The performance indicators are part of the conservation objective, not a substitute for it. Assessment of plans and projects must be based on the entire conservation objective, not just the performance indicators. Table 6 Performance indicators for feature condition: Embryonic Shifting Dunes Attribute Attribute, rationale and other comments Specified limits A1. Extent of Embryonic Shifting Dunes. The extent target is based on the extent of the strand line from monitoring visits in 2002 and 2007 (not the extent when designated). Embryonic dunes and strand line vegetation can be destroyed or damaged by natural processes such as storms and high tides. Therefore, to expect it to be present every year is unrealistic. However, monitoring by the site wardens between 1987 and 1997 shows the strand line was present for ten out of eleven of those years. There is no specific target for embryonic shifting dunes at Morfa Dyffryn because they are not normally present, however, if they do form they tend to be insignificant in extent. Definitions: Strandline vegetation: typical strand line species on the seaward side of the first dune ridge at a density of at least one plant every 5 metres. Embryo dunes: sparsely vegetated mobile sand hummocks up to 1m high on the seaward side of the first dune ridge. At Morfa Harlech these two habitats tend to merge together. A map showing the distribution of the embryonic shifting dunes in 2007 is shown below (Map 3). A decrease in the extent of the embryonic dunes due to natural processes is acceptable. A decrease found to be the result of anthropogenic factors is not. Within Unit 2 Morfa Harlech, where embryonic shifting dunes is the key habitat: Embryonic shifting dunes should be present along at least 700m of the beach with at least 50m present south of the main beach access point. The strand line and embryo dunes should be present during late summer (August and September) Absence of this feature due to exceptionally high tides or storms is acceptable. 15
A2. Condition of embryonic shifting dunes: species composition. These targets are based on the Common Standards Monitoring (CSM) attribute for this feature. Modified according to site-specific requirements. The CSM guidelines suggests for the strandline that one the typical species should be frequent and a second occasional for both embryonic dunes and strand line vegetation. However, strand line vegetation varies from year to year and although unlikely, it could be possible for the strand line vegetation to be made up of a singular species over a significant stretch. The embryo dune vegetation can also be defined by a singular species. The embryonic shifting dunes should be vegetated by at least one species typical of embryo dunes or of strand line vegetation. Typical species of these habitats are listed above. Table 7. Performance indicators for factors affecting the feature: Embryonic Shifting Dunes Factor Factor rationale and other comments Operational Limits F1. Physical structurefunctionality and sediment supply from both on site and off site A continuous supply of fresh blown sand is essential for the maintenance of this early successional habitat. Without the fresh supply of sand the strand line and embryo dunes are likely to erode. The sand balance on the site is a direct consequence of the balance within the coastal cell which stretches from the Mawddach to Morfa Bychan. The Morfa Harlech dune system is gaining sand from the eroding system at Morfa Dyffryn. Recording sand levels using the beach markers has shown net accretion at the north and far south of Morfa Harlech since 1987. Geomorphological modelling of the site (Pye and Saye 2005) predicts continued accretion in the north only (by 2080-2100) with the coastline of the southern half of the site retreating inland slightly. The targets in the performance indicator currently stipulate that accretion in the south is currently desirable; however, this target may need to be reconsidered in the future. The natural erosion of sand and other substrates will be tolerated. However, erosion due to human activities will not be. Within the coastal cell and within Morfa Harlech a Dyffryn dune systems; Units 1 6 and 23 28: There should be no further anthropogenic increase in factors leading to constraints to the natural mobility of the system. These could include; new coastal defence works or beach stabilisation works. There should be net accretion recorded over a five-year period at the permanent beach markers south of the main beach access point (1-3 S) and markers north of northing gridline 33 (5, 6 and 7 N) (See map below). 16
F2. Beach cleaning Organic matter on the beach helps to trap the blown sand and act as a nutrient and moisture source for strand line vegetation. Unselective beach cleaning has lead to the removal of organic matter such as seaweed from beaches elsewhere. On the beaches; Unit 2 Morfa Harlech and Units 23, 24, 26 and 28 at Morfa Dyffryn If beach cleaning occurs no organic matter such as seaweed should be removed. F3. Vehicle or visitor damage This target is based on the Common Standards Monitoring (CSM) attribute for this feature. Within Unit 2 where embryonic shifting dunes is the key habitat: Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent or rare. F5. Grazing This target has been included because damage to the strand line vegetation caused by grazing has been observed at Morfa Harlech. Within Unit 2 where embryonic shifting dunes is the key habitat: Damage to vegetation due to grazing or trampling should be rare or absent. 17
Map 3. Approximate location and numbering of beach markers at Morfa Harlech 18
4.2 Conservation Objective for Feature 2: Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (EU Habitat Code : 2120) Comprising foredune of the following NVC Community - SD 6 Vision for Feature 2 The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: The total extent of the shifting dunes including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated, c.18.9 ha at Morfa Harlech which should be present both along the seaward dune ridge and inland within units 1, 3, 4 and 5 and at least 82 ha of shifting dunes at Morfa Dyffryn which should be distributed throughout units 28, 27, 26, 24, and 23. The shifting dunes should be vegetated by species such as those listed in the table below. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control. Table 8. Typical species of the shifting dunes along the shoreline Species of the Shifting dunes along the shore line NVC Constant species (site Communities specific) SD6 Ammophila Ammophila arenaria arenaria mobile dune community Associates (site specific) Elytrigia juncea (Elymus farctus), Festuca rubra, Senicio jacobaea, Hypochoeris radicata Euphorbia paralias, Carex arenaria. Rare and notable species (site specific) Euphorbia paralias, Cynoglossum officinale, Phleum arenarium. 19
Map 4. Extent of the Shifting Dunes at Morfa Harlech in 2006 excluding unit 5 This map was created from digitised using aerial photographs (COWI-Vexcel 2006). Only the larger stands of shifting dunes were digitised and field checks were not made. The dunes in unit 5 were not mapped because they couldn t be picked out on the aerial photographs. 20
Map 5. Extent of the Shifting Dunes at Morfa Dyffryn in 2006 This map was created from digitised using aerial photographs (COWI-Vexcel 2006). Only the larger stands of shifting dunes were digitised and field checks were not made. 21
Table 9: Performance indicators for feature condition: Shifting dunes Attribute A1. Extent of Shifting Dunes. A2. Condition of shifting dunes: species composition. Attribute rationale and other comments The targets are based on the features of interest sheet. Shifting dunes definition: Dunes made up of bare sand or open communities dominated by Ammophila arenaria, or Elytrigia juncea, with bare sand present throughout the sward. Maps showing the existing extent of the shifting dunes are shown above (Maps 4 and 5). A decrease in the extent of the shifting dunes due to natural processes is acceptable. A decrease found to be the result of anthropogenic factors is not. Clematis vitalba is an invasive species associated with increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition and low grazing levels. It is currently present at Morfa Harlech. Specified limits Morfa Harlech There should be at least 18.9 ha of shifting dunes at Morfa Harlech spread throughout units 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. At least 4 ha of shifting dunes should be spread throughout Units 1,3,4 and 5 (away from the seaward dune ridge), including at least two areas of shifting dunes greater than 0.4 ha in extent. This should not include areas of disturbed bare sand created as a result of tracks or works on the dunes. Within Unit 2, Morfa Harlech, there should be a ridge of shifting dunes for 5000m along the beachfront. Morfa Dyffryn There should be at least 79ha of shifting dunes. At Morfa Dyffryn (Units 23, 24, 26, 27 and 28) Throughout Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC: Upper limit: The shifting dunes should be vegetated primarily by Ammophila arenaria or Elytrigia juncea and other species typical of the shifting dunes at Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn listed within table 8 above. Within the shifting dunes no dense stands of Clematis vitalba larger than 1m x 1m should be present. 22
Table 10. Performance indicators for factors affecting the feature: Shifting dunes Factor Factor rationale and other comments Operational Limits F1. Physical structurefunctionality and sediment supply A continuous supply of fresh blown sand is essential for the maintenance of the accreting dunes at Morfa Harlech. Cessation of the supply of fresh sand could lead to stabilisation or erosion. F2. Beach cleaning F3. Grazing, and disturbance by livestock F4. Grazing and digging by rabbits F5. Vehicle or visitor damage A further decrease in the sand supply at Morfa Dyffryn could lead to an unnatural increase in the rate of erosion. The sand balance on the site is a direct consequence of the balance within the coastal cell stretching from the Mawddach to Morfa Bychan. The natural erosion of sand and other substrates will be tolerated. However, erosion due to human activities will not be. Organic matter on the beach helps to trap the blown sand and act as a nutrient and moisture source for strand line vegetation which builds into embryo dunes and on into shifting dunes. Unselective beach cleaning has lead to the removal of organic matter such as seaweed from beaches elsewhere. Grazing and trampling can help keep the shifting dune vegetation open and the dunes mobile. However, heavy grazing can have a detrimental effect. Rabbits digging and grazing help keep mobile dunes mobile and destabilise fixed dunes creating new shifting dune habitat. Pressure from trampling or vehicles can cause damage to vegetation and erosion. Within the coastal cell and within Morfa Harlech a Dyffryn dune systems; Units 1-6 and 23-28: There should be no further anthropogenic increase in factors leading to constraints to the natural mobility of the system. These could include; new coastal defence works or beach stabilisation works. Within Unit 2, Morfa Harlech, there should be net accretion recorded over every five year period for beach markers 1, 2 and 3 south of the main beach access point and markers 5, 6 and 7 to the north of northing gridline 33. On the beaches; Unit 2 Morfa Harlech and Units 23, 24, 26 and 28 at Morfa Dyffryn If beach cleaning occurs no organic matter such as seaweed should be removed. The dunes should be lightly grazed. Within Units 6, 4 and 3 grazing levels are stipulated in the management agreement for the holding. Unit 26, grazing levels are stipulated in the Tir Gofal agreement for the holding. No limits set Within units 1, 3, 4, 28, 26, 23 and 24 Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent or rare. F6. Forestry Plantation The forestry plantation within Unit 5 has fossilised the once mobile dunes. Within Unit 5 The coniferous trees should be removed. 23
Conservation Objective for Features 3 and 4: Humid Dune Slacks (EU Habitat Code 2190): Feature 3 Dunes with Salix repens (EU Habitat Code 2170) : Feature 4 Comprising dune slacks of the following National Vegetation Classification (NVC) communities : SD13, SD14, SD15, SD16 and SD17. Vision for Features 3 & 4 The vision for these features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: The total extent of the humid dune slacks and dunes with Salix repens including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated, some 65.1 ha at Morfa Harlech and 43.6 ha at Morfa Dyffryn. All successional phases of dune slack vegetation should be present at Morfa Dyffryn. The humid dune slacks should be vegetated with typical and desirable species such as those outlined in the table below. The dune slack vegetation should be free from scrub and should have a relatively short sward. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control. Table 11: Vegetation species of the humid dune slacks and dunes with Salix repens Feature sub-division The humid dune slacks feature can be attributable to each of the sub-categories whereas the dunes with Salix repens feature is attributable only to the mature dune slacks. Embryo dune slacks are defined as damp areas of sand with very sparse vegetation within the immediate area of an active blowout. Salix repens may occur in distinct colonial patches. Successionally young dune slacks form stands of vegetation where there is a high cover of bare ground often covered by a brown crust or thalloid liverworts. Salix repens forms a low carpet. NVC Communities Unclassified vegetation communities SD14 Salix repens- Campylium stellatum duneslack community and other unclassified vegetation communities Typical species-constants and/or desirable* species (site specific) Salix repens, Carex arenaria, Sagina nodosa*, Juncus articulatus* and Juncus acutus* Salix repens Juncus articulatus, Sagina nodosa*, Equisetum variegatum*, Agrostis stolonifera. 24
Mature dune slacks form closed vegetation communities. Salix repens is always present, some times abundant and canopy forming. SD15 Salix repens- Calliergon cuspidatum duneslack community SD16 Salix repens- Holcus lanatus dune-slack community Primary mature dune slack community at Morfa Dyffryn. SD17 Potentilla anserine- Carex nigra dune-slack community Primary mature dune slack community at Morfa Harlech. Salix repens, Calliergon cuspidatum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris*, Juncus conglomeratus, Mentha aquatica* Salix repens, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Lotus corniculatus*, Carex flacca*, Galium verum*, Galium palustre*, Anagallis tenella*, Potentilla anserina*, Carex arenaria*, Polygala vulgaris*, Euphrasia officinalis agg*. Pyrolla rotundifolia*, Epipactis palustris*, Dactylorhisa incanata*, Linum catharticum*, Ranunculus flammula*, Hydrocotyle vulgaris*. Salix repens, Carex nigra, Potentilla an serina, Calliergon cuspidatum, Lotus corniculatus*, Filipendula ulmaria* Galium verum*, Galium palustre*, Potentilla palustris*, Ranunculus flammula*, Veronica scutellata*, Mentha aquatica*, Iris pseudacorus*, Myosotis scorpioides* 25
Map 6. The extent of the Humid Dune Slacks and Dunes with Salix repens at Morfa Harlech in 2007 excluding Unit 5 This map was created from NVC data from Ashall et al 1995. Much of the data has been modified to fit with the most up to date air photographs (COWI-Vexcel 2006), and from site visits and GPS data collected during the monitoring in 2007. The dune slacks within Unit 5 were not mapped, as they couldn t be picked out on the aerial photographs. 26
Map 7. The extent of the Humid Dune Slacks and dunes with Salix repens at Morfa Dyffryn in 2007. Mapping was carried during site visits as part of the monitoring in 2002 and 2007 with the aid of the Getmapping 2000 Air Photos and the COWI-Vexed 2006. The extent and distribution of the slacks within the campsite in unit 28 is taken from the NVC survey Ashall et al 1992. 27
Table 12 Performance indicators for feature condition: Humid Dune Slacks and Dunes with Salix repens Attribute Attribute rationale and other comments A1. Extent The overall extent targets are based on the feature of interest sheets for Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SSSIs. A2. Species composition of the dune slacks. A3. Condition of the dunes slacks The vast majority of the dune slacks at Morfa Harlech are currently mature dune slacks. Morfa Dyffryn slacks are currently made up of a range of successional stages. The targets for the extent of each successional stage is based the current extent mapped during monitoring in 2007. Maps of the extent and distribution of the slack habitats in 2007 are shown above (Maps 6 and 7) A decrease in the extent of the dune slacks due to natural processes is acceptable. A decrease found to be the result of anthropogenic factors is not. The humid dune slacks and dunes with Salix repens have been divided into distinct successional communities characteristic of Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn sand dune system. Specified limits Morfa Harlech There should be at least 65.1 ha of dune slack habitat. The dune slack habitat should be spread through out the following Units: 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Morfa Dyffryn There should be at least 43.6 ha of dune slacks at Morfa Dyffryn The dune slacks should be should be spread through out the following units: 23, 28, 26 and 27. At least 26 ha of the dune slacks should be made up of mature dune slacks (see table 11 above). At least 4 ha of the dune slacks should be made up of succesionally young dune slacks (see table 11 above). There should be at least 8 stands of embryo dune slacks (see table 11 above) at Morfa Dyffryn greater than 4m x 4m in area. Within units 3, 4, 26, 27 and 28: The sward should be made up of typical such as those listed in the table 11 above. The desirable species should be frequent throughout the sward. Within units 3, 4, 26, 27 and 28 the majority of the dune slacks should be in good condition where: The sward is not dominated by rank grasses or by bushy Salix repens. The sward height is low enough to allow the smaller herb species to thrive but not to be grazed out. The dune slacks are free from 28
scrub. Successionally young dune slacks only: Bare ground and/or thalloid liverworts make up a 25% of the sward. The cover of grasses is low Table 13 Performance indicators for factors affecting the feature: Humid Dune Slacks and Dunes with Salix repens Factor Factor rationale and other comments Operational Limits F1. Natural coastal processes F2. Grazing and trampling by livestock Dune mobility is essential for the development of embryonic and successionally young slacks. Embryonic slacks form at the base of eroding dunes but slacks can also be destroyed by the advance of a mobile dune or modified as layers of sand are deposited on the slack. Grazing is important for the maintenance of the slack vegetation. Both rabbits and livestock graze the slacks at Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC. Under-grazing can lead to the dune slack vegetation becoming dominated by rank grasses or bushy Salix repens leading to a loss of species diversity and to scrub invasion leading to drying out of the slacks and total loss of the slack habitat as it is shaded out by the scrub. Overgrazing can lead to loss of species diversity as herbs are grazed out and are replaced by grasses. Trampling of the vegetation can lead to physical damage to the vegetation and soil structure and invasion by weed species. Within units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 at Morfa Harlech or 23, 24, 26, 27 and 28 at Morfa Dyffryn. There should be no constraints on the movement of sand. The dune slacks should be lightly grazed. Within Units 6, 4 and 3: Grazing levels are stipulated in the draft management agreement for the holding. Unit 26, grazing levels are stipulated in the Tir Gofal agreement for the holding. F3. Hydrological regime The slack vegetation is maintained by a high water table. The forestry plantation within Unit 5 is causing a depression in the water table over a wide area of the slacks in Units 3, 4 and 5. Within Units 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 at Morfa Harlech and Units 26, 27, 28, 35, 37, and 38 at Morfa Dyffryn or land adjacent to the SAC boundaries, there should be no drainage ditches or water abstraction or pumping which could cause a lowering of the water table. The coniferous forestry plantation within Unit 5 should be removed. There should be no tracks created which would disrupt the hydrological regime. 29
F4. Vehicle or visitor damage Vehicles or pressure from visitors including camping can cause damage or loss of to slack vegetation, compaction and erosion. Camping is a particular problem at Morfa Dyffryn. Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent or rare at vulnerable locations No camping or car parking should occur on the dune slack vegetation. There should be no new tracks, hard standing or car parking areas created within the dunes slacks. F5. Scrub There are on going programmes of scrub clearance within the dune slacks. Mowing has also taken place at Morfa Harlech. The removal of scrub helps prevents the loss of slack habitats to scrub and woodland. Within the forestry plantation (Unit 5) trees and scrub need to be removed from the slack habitat Within Units 6, 5, 4, 3, 26, 27and 28 There should be no stands of scrub within the current area of dune slacks shown on Maps 6 and 7 above, greater than 1m x 1m. 30
Conservation Objective for Feature 5: Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii (EU Habitat Code 1395) Vision for Features 5 The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: The population of Petalophyllum will remain stable or increase. Petalophyllum should be present at Morfa Harlech should be distributed across the northern part of Morfa Dyffryn sand dune system (Units 26 and 28). The successionally young dune slacks that support the Petalophyllum should be in good condition as defined in the conservation objective for features 3 and 4 above. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control. Table 14 Performance indicators for feature condition: Petalophyllum ralfsii Attribute A1. Population and distribution of Petalophyllum A2. Extent and condition of the habitat. Attribute rationale and other comments The targets for the population of Petalophyllum and it s distribution are based on survey and monitoring work from: Birch, K, (2007) Holyoak, D., T. (2002) Holyoak, D., T. (2000) Newton, M., E. (1999). Newton, M., E. (1995) Petalophyllum is dependant on damp conditions. Monitoring should only take place after a period of wet weather in the Autumn or Spring. Petalophyllum ralfsii is found in the dune slacks- it is most abundant in successionally young dune slacks with high proportion of bare ground and a high water table. Specified limits One year in every six: Within area A on the map 8 below there should be a colony of Petalophyllum present with a density of >20 thalli per 50cm x 50 cm at at least 7 points. Within area B on the attached map there should be a colony of Petalophyllum present with a density of >20 thalli per 50cm x 50 cm at at least 7 points. Within area C there should be a colony of Petalophyllum present, with a density of more than 20 thalli within 50cm x 50cm at a single point. Within area D on the attached map there should be a colony of Petalophyllum present. There should be at least 43.6 ha of dune slacks at Morfa Dyffryn (Units 23, 26, 27,and 28). The dune slacks should be 31
The extent of the dune slacks is taken from the features of interest sheet. should be spread through out the following Units: 23, 28,26, 27 within the SAC, and Units 37 and 36 within Morfa Dyffryn SSSI. At least 4 ha of the dune slacks should be made up of successionally young dune slacks. The majority of the vegetation within Areas A, C and D should comprise of optimal Petalophyllum habitat where: o There is at least 40% 'bare-sand' overlain with a dark organic crust with a very low cover of vascular plants. o Acrocarpous mosses and thalloid liverworts make up a significant proportion of the vegetation. o Associate species such as Campylium stellatum, Equisetum variegatum, Sagina nodosa, Carex flacca should be constant throughout the sward. 32
Map 8. Petalophyllum ralfsii areas at Morfa Dyffryn 33
Table 15: Performance indicators for factors affecting the feature Petalophyllum ralfsii Factor F1. Vehicle or visitor damage F2. Hydrological regime Factor rationale and other comments Physical damage by vehicles or visitors could cause the loss of Petalophyllum colonies and damage or loss of to the dune slack habitat of Petalophyllum including, compaction and erosion. 4x4 tracks originating from unit 28 were noted within Petalophyllum area A (Unit 26) in 2007. Petalophyllum favours the slacks with a high water table where seasonal flooding is common. Operational Limits Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent within areas A, B, C and D (within Units 26 and 28) on map 8. There should be no camping within areas A, B, C or D marked on map 8. No new tracks should be created. Within the management Units 26, 27, 28, 35, 37, and 38 or land adjacent to the SAC boundaries at Morfa Dyffryn: There should be no drainage ditches or water abstraction or pumping which could cause a lowering of the water table. F3. Succession Petalophyllum ralfsii is found primarily within early successional slack habitats. The species can be lost through natural succession to drier more closed communities; however, the natural creation of new slack habitats should create new opportunities for Petalophyllum to colonise. No targets set. 34